The sudden death of actor and performer Shefali Jariwala, 42, best known for her appearance in the hit remix Kaanta Laga and participation in Bigg Boss 13, has shocked fans across the country. Shefali was reportedly rushed to a hospital on Friday night in Mumbai, where she was declared dead. The exact cause of death is yet to be confirmed, but reports suggest that anti-ageing pills and skin-lightening injections may have played a role.
As friends and family mourn her untimely passing, troubling questions are being raised: Can these so-called beauty boosters really be dangerous? Could they trigger serious heart issues or even cause sudden death?
While police investigations are still ongoing, several media reports have hinted that Shefali may have been self-medicating with anti-ageing supplements, including glutathione injections. As per reports, she had been using these products for several years.
What are anti-ageing pills and glutathione?
Anti-ageing treatments today include a wide mix of pills, powders, and injectables. From hormonal therapies like testosterone or growth hormone to antioxidants like vitamin C and glutathione, many of these products promise youthful skin, brighter complexion, or even longevity.
“Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant naturally found in our bodies. It’s important for detoxifying cells and protecting them from damage,” explains Dr. Varun Bansal, Consultant in Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals.
But while these substances may sound harmless, their growing popularity, especially in injectable forms used without medical supervision, is raising red flags among experts.
Can glutathione and anti-ageing pills trigger heart issues?
Direct cardiac effects from glutathione and similar antioxidants are rare when used properly. However, the risk increases sharply when these are taken via injections, especially on an empty stomach or in a dehydrated state.
“Injectable glutathione can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure. In very rare cases, this could trigger cardiac arrest,” says Dr. Bansal.
“It’s even riskier if someone has been fasting, is dehydrated, or already has an underlying heart issue.”
The US FDA has not approved glutathione injections for cosmetic use, and several countries have flagged adverse reactions, including liver and kidney toxicity, nerve damage, and severe allergic responses.
Hormone-based anti-ageing pills and their hidden dangers
Some anti-ageing pills claim to “reverse time” by adjusting hormone levels, like increasing testosterone or growth hormone. But doctors warn that tampering with hormone balance can have serious heart-related side effects.
“Hormonal anti-ageing drugs can raise blood pressure, cause irregular heart rhythms, and increase the risk of blood clots, heart attacks, or stroke,” warns Dr. Bansal. “These risks are higher in people who already have a weak heart or blood pressure problems,” he adds.
Even newer anti-ageing supplements like NAD+ boosters, which claim to increase energy and metabolism, are being studied for their possible impact on heart strain.
Too much or too little? Glutathione and heart rhythm
The irony is, that glutathione is good for the heart — but only in the right amount.
“Disrupting the natural glutathione balance in the body can increase oxidative stress on the heart,” says Dr. Bansal. “This makes it more prone to arrhythmias, which are abnormal heart rhythms that can sometimes be fatal,” he further adds.
Taking too much glutathione or using it incorrectly can mess with how the heart beats — and in extreme cases, lead to sudden collapse.
Lack of regulation
Most anti-ageing treatments are not formally tested or approved for cosmetic purposes. Many of them are used “off-label,” meaning outside the original approved purpose. This leads to misuse, unsafe combinations, and unmonitored risks.
“There’s a booming market built on social media hype, with influencers promoting unregulated injections and pills as quick beauty fixes,” says Dr. Bansal. “But most of these treatments don’t have strong scientific evidence — and some can be dangerous,” he further said.
While investigations into Shefali Jariwala’s death continue, her story is already prompting a broader conversation: Are we putting our health at risk in the pursuit of youth?
“Anti-ageing treatments should never be treated like DIY projects,” warns Dr. Bansal.
“Always speak to a qualified doctor before trying any such pills or injections — especially if you have heart conditions or other health issues.”
